Striking views, samurai vibes and delicious food are just some of the things that make Ronin stand out
Honouring diverse cultural traditions has long been a hallmark of the best restaurants in Dubai, and Ronin is no different.
With its largely dark, almost gothic interiors juxtaposed against a sky of red lamps and pagoda-style tables, the irezumi-inspired restaurant pays homage to its Japanese roots in more ways than one.
Your entry to the restaurant is marked by one of the most glam elevator rides we’ve ever taken, stunning views of the Dubai Eye, a gong accompanied by the staff’s welcoming ‘ ‘Irrashaimase’ and some theatrics from the open plan kitchen.
While outdoor seating remains at the mercy of the weather gods, the indoor vibes are still immaculate thanks to the appropriate decibels of house music being spun by a rather enthusiastic DJ in the corner.
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The staff are incredibly warm, plying us with beverages as we look through the delicious menu. What Ronin’s menu gets right lies not in the inventiveness of the plates (though there’s plenty of that to be found!), but in the meticulous attention to detail.
From perfectly executed hamachi sashimi to rich, umami-laden fried rice and everything in between, each dish is a work of art. The bold flavours, meticulous presentation, and fresh ingredients come together to create an unforgettable meal.
In terms of highlights, my partner undeniably favoured the BBQ spicy lamb rack, and I remain convinced that the beef and chicken kushiyaki was some of the best we’ve ever had. The former featured perfectly cooked spicy miso lamb chop served with a tart eggplant yuzu miso, while the latter almost effortlessly slipped off the skewer into a juicy explosion on our palate.
Even though we didn’t sample it during our visit, the real showstopper at Ronin remains the Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar. Nothing quite compares to live fire cooking and watching the chefs expertly handle the flames and blades. It’s not just food; it’s performance art.
We rounded off the meal with some reliable ice cream mochi and a chef’s special selection of bonbons, marking the perfect night off. This isn’t your typical Japanese restaurant; it’s an exploration of flavours and a nod to the maverick spirit of the samurai. The venue itself feels like stepping into an artist’s canvas, with dramatic hand-painted samurai murals and folklore motifs that pay tribute to Japan’s rich culture – all with a bold, modern twist.
For reservations, visit Ronin Dubai
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